Learning disorder that affects the ability to read effectively because of difficulties in decoding and understanding written language. It affects approximately 5 to 10% of the population.
The exact causes are unknown, but it is related to genetics, brain development and environmental experiences.
Symptoms include difficulty reading fluently and understanding the meaning of words, mixing up similar numbers and letters, difficulty writing, not understanding the rules of punctuation, making a lot of mistakes, and having to spell to remember the information read.
Diagnosis is based on neuropsychological and linguistic assessment, as well as direct observation of the person's reading and writing skills.
Treatment is based on the acquisition of skills and the ability to read.
- American Psychiatric Association. Specific Learning Disorder. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision, American Psychiatric Association, Washington, DC 2022. p.76.
- Rydz D, Srour M, Oskoui M, et al. Screening for developmental delay in the setting of a community pediatric clinic: a prospective assessment of parent-report questionnaires. Pediatrics 2006; 118:e1178.
- International Dyslexia Association. Definition of dyslexia. Available at: interdys.org/FactSheets.htm (Accessed on February 13, 2008).
- McLaughlin MJ, Speirs KE, Shenassa ED. Reading disability and adult attained education and income: evidence from a 30-year longitudinal study of a population-based sample. J Learn Disabil 2014; 47:374
- Hendren RL, Haft SL, Black JM, et al. Recognizing Psychiatric Comorbidity With Reading Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:101.
